Luke Shaw has admitted that Roy Keane’s scathing criticism of his performance in Manchester United’s derby defeat to Manchester City was justified — even if it stung to hear from a club legend. The 30-year-old England international, now one of United’s senior players, was singled out after being at fault for two goals in the 3-0 loss at the Etihad earlier this month.
Keane, speaking on Sky Sports, accused Shaw of “getting away with murder for years” and pointed to both his inconsistent performances and long injury record since joining from Southampton in 2014. The pundit also lamented Shaw’s lack of aggression in key defensive moments, particularly against Jeremy Doku and Erling Haaland.
Responding after United’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea on Saturday — a match in which Shaw impressed and contributed to Casemiro’s decisive goal — the defender accepted that Keane was right in his assessment. “It hurt, of course it did,” Shaw told reporters, “but I can take it on the chin.”
Having endured an injury-hit couple of years, Shaw is determined to put those struggles behind him. With a full pre-season under Ruben Amorim and five consecutive league starts to open the campaign, he insists the key now is maintaining high-level consistency. The question is whether Shaw can finally shed the stop-start narrative that has defined much of his Old Trafford career.
Shaw admits Keane’s criticism was justified
The full-back acknowledged Keane’s standing at the club and said he respects the honesty of his verdict.
“He’s got a lot of experience. He was one of the best captains ever for Man United. Of course it hurts. I think criticism is part of being a football player. I listen to it. But for me, I think he was right. Last week, I wasn’t at my level at all. I don’t need Roy Keane to tell me — I knew that after the game. But of course it hurts.” — Luke Shaw
The defender stressed the importance of consistency as he moves into his thirties, acknowledging he has had “a lot of ups and downs” since joining United but still feels trusted by successive managers.
From derby disappointment to Chelsea redemption
Against City, Shaw’s struggles were glaring. He failed to stop Jeremy Doku’s cross for Phil Foden’s opener and was muscled off by Erling Haaland for the second. The mistakes fed into Keane’s harsh but pointed remarks about his defensive desire.
However, Shaw responded with authority in the win over Chelsea, performing strongly as a left-sided centre-back in Amorim’s 3-4-3 and playing a key role in setting up Casemiro’s header. It was a reminder of the level he can produce when sharp and confident.
| Stat (2025/26) | Luke Shaw |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 5 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Minutes played | 450 |
source: sofascore match data – 21 September 2025
The stats underline his availability and impact so far this season — already a contrast to recent years where injuries repeatedly disrupted his rhythm.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Shaw’s openness is a positive sign. “Roy Keane’s words might have cut deep, but Shaw accepting them publicly shows maturity. United need leaders, and Shaw acknowledging responsibility after a poor game, then delivering against Chelsea, is exactly the response Amorim will want.”
He added that Shaw’s ability to adapt into a central role within Amorim’s system could prolong his career at the top level. “If Shaw can stay fit and consistent, he can still be a huge asset. The criticism may yet prove the wake-up call he needed.”
Key insights
- Luke Shaw admits Roy Keane was right to criticise his Manchester derby display.
- The defender says the comments “hurt” but insists he must be more consistent.
- Shaw has endured two injury-hit seasons but has started all five league games in 2025/26.
- He impressed against Chelsea, setting up Casemiro’s winner in a 2-1 victory.
- Amorim has deployed Shaw as a left-sided centre-back in a 3-4-3.
What’s next for Manchester United?
Shaw and his teammates will now prepare for a testing run of fixtures, with Brentford up next. For Amorim, Shaw’s improved display against Chelsea must become the norm if United are to mount a credible challenge for the top four.
As one of the longest-serving players in the squad, Shaw knows the scrutiny will remain high. But if he can marry fitness with consistency, United’s defensive foundations will be significantly stronger — and perhaps even Roy Keane will have fewer reasons to criticise.
👉 Do you agree with Roy Keane — has Luke Shaw “got away with murder for years,” or can he finally prove his critics wrong?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 21 Sep 2025 13:59
You dont put Berbatov as a CM either do you. I mean, he plays as a CB a position he isn't used a lot.
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *